UNITED NATIONS DISASTER RELIEF CO-ORDINATOR, OFFICE OF THE

(>UNDRO) UN office established in March 1972 to coordinate international relief activities to countries struck by natural or other disasters. It is headed by a disaster relief coordinator who reports directly to the UN secretary-general. UNDRO attempts to consolidate the resources of the international community in response to disasters. Responding to requests from stricken states for disaster assistance, UNDRO is authorized not only to direct UN assistance but also to mobilize aid from non-governmental organs such as the International Red Cross. By matching donor responses to reported needs, UNDRO functions as an information coordination centre. By aiding the establishment of stockpiles in areas susceptible to natural disasters and by implementing effective use of natural resources, UNDRO promotes the effectiveness of the international community in combating disasters.